Post Frame/Pole Barn Hardware

[tstaude]

For those of us who have constructed a pole barn, who has used screws?

I am looking to figure out the equivalent of the ring shank nails that were used in my barn. I dismantled it and when I put it up I would like to use screws over the large ring shank nails.

Does anyone know how to convert or used screws for header and girt attachment?

 

[karoc]

No personal experience but all I hear is GRK screws is what pole barn builders use. Which comes in difference sizes and lengths. Then there is timber frame screws which are also tougher than nails. But I also read that nails are better cause they will bend little and the screws will break due to being very hard. Again all this is what I read, no personal experience.Cause like you I would like to use screws instead of the nails

 

[MrSurly]

I had to build strictly according to the engineered drawings which had very specific fastener schedules. The vast majority of the framing was nailed (specific part number) I think they were 3-1/2" 10d but the headers and the laminated beams were all attached to the timbers with specific Timber-Lok screws, three different lengths. They are some bad-assed fasteners, but the cost of them will set you down in the chair for a bit.

 

[nadogail]

Unless you are smarter and more experienced than the builders of pole barns; IMHO, if you don't follow their lead you are assuming a lot of responsibility.

 

[tstaude]

It is a difference of preference among pole barn builders, I really want to go with screws over nails but want to find out the equivalents.

 

[mustangcrazy77]

For the price of structural screws for a barn you’d be able to buy a nail gun and all of the 10d nails.

 

[tstaude]

the ring shank nails for headers are like 20D or greater, I have to measure a few I pulled.
I do have a 3" framing nailer but not the mammoth 4" gun.

 

[speed bump]

https://www.fastenmaster.com/product-docs/thrulok-screw-bolt-fastening-system.html

Timberlock guidelines for using their fasteners in pole barns. If you have a specific call them and they will be able to tell you what to use.

 

[mustangcrazy77]

the ring shank nails for headers are like 20D or greater, I have to measure a few I pulled.
I do have a 3" framing nailer but not the mammoth 4" gun.

If you want to stick with 20d, you can use a palm nailer if you want to save your elbow.

 

[larry_g]

Also be aware that if you are using treated poles or girts that you have a fastener that will resist being eaten up by the preservative.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[karoc]

This is really a neat post with lots of good responses. Till now never gave fasteners thought. Been watching lots of Utubes and most use hot dip galvanized ring shank nails in most of their framing but where they would make a splice they would screw it. Watch RR Builders Youtubes is big help but reading lot post here is also big helping tool. Love the palm nailer ideal

 

[matt_i]

GRK RSS, Timberlok, Simpson Strong Tie all make structural screws.

I have the most experience with the GRK-RSS. Fantastic product, no nail could ever come close except for the speed.

 

[karoc]

Guys if I may ask where is a good source for these good galvanized ring shank nails? I know there are some that looks like maybe they use a rattle can to paint on galvanized onto nails. Is what HD or Lowes a good source,or maybe something on line for nails made in US?

 

[Crawlin]

MAZE nails. Probably have them at your local lumber yard.

 

[karoc]

MAZE nails. Probably have them at your local lumber yard.

Fantastic,will check there see what I can find

 

[Marctrees]

https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf...hUKEwjt0bGgr-XrAhUOTawKHZ4lD5cQ4dUDCA0&uact=5

 

[greg13]

I am somewhat over building mine. The top rim that carries the trusses is doubled, one inside & outside the post, nailed, screwed and carriage bolted through the post with tie plates at the joints.

 

[karoc]

https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf...hUKEwjt0bGgr-XrAhUOTawKHZ4lD5cQ4dUDCA0&uact=5

Marc that is good information, I did not know about stainless. Guessing that the galvanized will last a life time I hope.
But I like Greg 13 approach,don't hurt to have belt and suspenders

 

[tstaude]

I stopped at my local lumber yard and they were quite helpful, I believe they have Timberlok. These screws are pretty Gnarly and have a spider drive, pretty cool!

I'll probably go with these for the header to replace the 5" ring shank

 

[Marctrees]

Why replace 5" ringshanks ?

They are like ? 5/16" diameter ? and penetrate 3 1/2" into your posts.

More than adequate if spaced proper.

As long as they are hot dipped galv.

Marc